CAB THARO Apollo 1 Series, Operator'S Manual

Page 1: ...Edition 2 01 Transfer Printer Apollo Apollo 1 Apollo 2 Apollo 3 Operator s Manual ...

Page 2: ...que modifiables sans prévais Gesellschaft für Tharo Systems Inc Computer und Automations 2866 Nationwide Parkway Bausteine mbH Co KG P O Box 798 cab Produkttechnik GmbH Co KG Brunswick OH 44212 0798 Postfach 1904 D 76007 Karlsruhe Web http www tharo com Wilhelm Schickard Str 14 D 76131 Karlsruhe E mail tharo tharo com Telefon 49 0 721 66 26 00 Tel 330 273 4408 Telefax 49 0 721 66 26 249 Fax 330 22...

Page 3: ... any translation may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means for any purpose other than the purchaser s personal use without the express written permission of cab Produkttechnik GmbH Karlsruhe Edition 2 01 Printed in Germany Thermal Transfer Printer Operator s Manual Apollo Thermal Transfer Printer Operator s Manual ...

Page 4: ...l Rewinder M 16 Rewind Guide Plate 16 Present Sensor 16 Memory Card 17 Keyboard Adapter 17 Applicator 17 Label Design Software EASYLABEL for Windows 17 Print Media 18 Print Media for Direct Thermal Printing 19 Print Media for Thermal Transfer Printing 19 Label Tag Media Specifications 20 Transfer Ribbon 21 2 General Safety Instructions 22 3 Unpacking and Delivery Contents 22 4 Printer Component Lo...

Page 5: ...EST PRINT 49 System Mode MONITOR MODE ASCII Dump Mode 50 System Mode LABEL FROM CARD 51 9 Setup 52 Start of Setup Mode 52 Overview of the Setup Parameters 53 Country Land 54 Transfer Print 56 Label Sensor 57 Interface 58 Cut Position 60 Peel Position 61 Printhead Position 62 Heat Level 64 Printer Info 65 Set Date 66 Set Time 67 Character Set 68 Format Card 69 Copy Memory Card 70 Backfeed 71 Debug ...

Page 6: ...nder M 92 Safety Instructions 92 Preparing the Printer 92 Mounting the Internal Rewinder 92 Rewind Guide Plate 94 Mounting the Rewind Guide Plate 94 Inserting the Labels for Internal Rewind 95 Present Sensor 96 Mounting the Present Sensor 96 Inserting the Labels for Peel off 97 Cut Peel off Adapter 98 Connectors 98 Pin Assignment of the 9 pin SUB D Connector 98 Installation and Operation 99 Memory...

Page 7: ...RS 422 RS 485 B 3 Pin Assignment of the Parallel Interface Connector B 4 Centronics Interface Cable B 5 Pin Assignment of the Peripheral Port B 6 Appendix C Error Messages Problem Resolution C 1 Correctable Errors C 1 Irrecoverable Errors C 2 Error Messages C 2 Appendix D Maintenance Cleaning Adjustment of the Printhead D 1 General Cleaning D 1 Cleaning the Media Feed Rollers D 1 Cleaning the Prin...

Page 8: ...ch as internal character sets of the printer and cabling specifications Furthermore comments on possible error messages and printer maintenance are included Note the directions for use on recommended material and comments on maintenance in order to avoid damage and premature failure of your Apollo Every effort has been made in the creation of this manual to provide as much information as possible ...

Page 9: ...tion Macintosh Computer is a product of Apple Computer Inc Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation Bitstream is a registered trademark of Bitstream Inc Speedo is a registered trademark of Bitstream Inc TrueType is a registered trademark of Apple Computer Inc Easylabel is a registered trademark of Tharo Systems Inc ...

Page 10: ...no high spots or debris on your media to lodge on or damage the printhead The label surface must be smooth Lower grade direct thermal paper is very rough and will act like sandpaper on the head reducing the head s lifetime Do not use low grade stock 4 Clean the head at each change of ribbon or with each new roll of direct thermal media with a special cleaning pen or a cotton swab with isopropyl al...

Page 11: ...ng features include reverse italic bold underlined and rotated characters The operation and usage of the Apollo is simple and comfortable All printer settings can be carried out with only four function keys on the front panel of the printer The double lined LCD display keeps the operator constantly informed about the current status of the printer The setup menu allows easy configuration changes wh...

Page 12: ...Compatibility Directive 89 336 EEC foll 93 31 EEC FCC Apollo complies with the requirements of the FCC regulations part 15 for class A computers Under disadvantageous circumstances the operation of these devices may cause interference with radio or TV reception which has to be eliminated by the operator WARNING This is a Class A product In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interf...

Page 13: ...r sets Supports Windows 95 Windows 1252 1250 IBM Codepage 850 852 ISO 8859 1 ISO 8859 8 EBCDIC Macintosh Supports all Western and Eastern European Latin characters Font size 035 to 5 in 9 128 mm For scaleable fonts width and height are individually changeable For Bitmap fonts the size is selectable up to a factor of 10 Font style Reverse bold italic underlined mirror inverted outlined grey Font ro...

Page 14: ...p to 8 in 200 mm Label rewind inside and outside Internal rewinder Core diameter 1 6 in 40 mm Max rewinding diameter 5 7 in 145 mm In dispense mode media rolls of up to 8 in 200 mm diameter may be used Material recognition Gap sensor see through Bottom reflective sensor Top reflective sensor Apollo 1 2 only adjustable from 12 to 1 9 in 3 48 mm Transfer ribbon Length 1 182 in 360 m Outer diameter 3...

Page 15: ...itchable between 230V A C 50Hz or 115V A C 60Hz Maximum Apollo 1 2 1 5 A at 230 V or 3 A at 115 V power input Apollo 3 800 mA at 230 V or 1 6 A at 115 V Circuit protection Apollo 1 2 T 4 A at 230 V or T 6 3 A at 115 V Apollo 3 T 1 6 A at 230 V or T 3 15 A at 115 V Environment Operation at 50 to 95 F 10 35 C at a humidity of 30 to 85 Version Apollo 1 300RS Apollo 2 300 Apollo 2 300R Apollo 3 200M A...

Page 16: ...e peripheral connector of the Apollo For cutter operation the firmware of the Apollo will automatically backfeed the label so that after cutting the label roll will be repositioned for the print of the next label Internal Rewinder M Apollo 3 200M and Apollo 3 300M are designed in that manner that an internal rewinder may be added by the operator if necessary Using the internal rewinder and the rew...

Page 17: ...ws you to connect your Apollo to a MF 2 compatible PC keyboard using the serial interface This will allow you to modify variable data stored on a memory card Applicator Apollo 1 is specially designed for the installation of an applicator This offers a low cost opportunity for automatically applying printed labels onto products or parts The power supply and control of the applicator is realized via...

Page 18: ...a wide range of opportunities for usage The Apollo is able to print on labels and continuous paper with a maximum supply roll diameter of 8 in 200 mm The minimum core diameter is 1 5 in 40 mm The printer can also process fanfold label material The ability of label edge recognition which guarantees the precise position of the printer output is accomplished by a moveable photocell This sensor is con...

Page 19: ... of the labels should be very smooth to avoid a sandpaper effect on the printhead 3 Always choose material which can be printed on with the lowest possible heat level The greater the heat level the shorter the life of the printhead Moreover with highest heat levels the phases of heating up and cooling down extend This may have a negative effect on the print quality especially if a high print speed...

Page 20: ...etween labels 08 2 21 5 546 E Label thickness 0024 06 01 25 F Thickness of silicon liner 0024 06 01 25 G Distance of the first printing position from the edge of the silicon liner 08 2 H Distance of the label sensor from the edge of the silicon liner 12 3 1 9 48 For special materials I Width of punch hole 2 5 K Height of punch hole 08 2 2 5 L Width of reflective mark 2 5 M Height of reflective mar...

Page 21: ...the printhead and sensors to accumulate dirt In addition with some transfer ribbons the back coating can flake or smudge leaving traces on the printhead All of these effects contribute to lowering the print quality to below desired standards Numerous tests have been conducted with a very large number of different transfer ribbons and we recommend only ribbons supplied by reputable manufacturers A ...

Page 22: ...y accessory or connecting the printer to a computer etc Also switch power off on all appliances before disconnecting Do not expose the printer to any moisture or use in damp or wet areas The printer will operate with the cover open if necessary This is not recommended as moving or rotating parts become accessible Keep long hair jewelry loose clothes away from the moving parts During the print proc...

Page 23: ...mbH Co KG Tharo Systems Inc 1 Display 2 Function keys with indicator LEDs 3 Cover 4 Ribbon shield screw 5 Ribbon shield 6 Dispense Tear off plate 7 Peripheral port Fig 4 a Front view 4 Printer Component Location 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 ...

Page 24: ... Inc Fig 4 b Side view Apollo 1 with cover open 1 Ribbon take up hub 2 Ribbon supply hub 3 Media hub 4 Media retainer 5 Media retainer knurled head screw 6 Print mechanism for details see Figure 4 c 7 Knurled knob 8 Media rewind hub 5 4 3 2 1 6 7 8 ...

Page 25: ...nch roller 3 Media guide 4 Rewind media guide 5 Lower pinch roller 6 Label edge sensor 7 Label edge sensor adjustment knob 8 Rewind assist roller 9 Accessory lock release lever 10 Printhead levelling adjustment screw 11 Media feed roller 12 Dispense Tear off plate 13 Ribbon shield 14 Thermal printhead 2 1 3 4 5 8 7 6 9 10 11 14 13 12 ...

Page 26: ... Side view Apollo 2 with cover open 1 Ribbon take up hub 2 Ribbon supply hub 3 Media hub 4 Media retainer 5 Media retainer knurled head screw 6 Print mechanism for details see Figure 4 e For Apollo 2 300R only 7 Media rewind hub 8 Knurled knob 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 ...

Page 27: ...er 2 Media guide 3 Rewind media guide 4 Label edge sensor 5 Label edge sensor adjustment knob 6 Accessory lock release lever 7 Printhead levelling adjustment screw 8 Media feed roller 9 Dispense Tear off plate 10 Ribbon shield 11 Thermal printhead For Apollo 2 300R only 12 Rewind assist roller 1 2 3 6 7 8 9 10 11 4 5 12 ...

Page 28: ...Co KG Tharo Systems Inc Fig 4 f Side view Apollo 3 with cover open 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 Ribbon take up hub 2 Ribbon supply hub 3 Media hub 4 Media retainer 5 Media retainer knurled head screw 6 Print mechanism for details see Figure 4 g ...

Page 29: ...rint mechanism Apollo 3 1 Printhead lever 2 Media guide 3 Rewind media guide 4 Label edge sensor 5 Label edge sensor adjustment knob 6 Rewind assist roller 7 Accessory lock release lever 8 Printhead levelling adjustment screw 9 Media feed roller 10 Dispense Tear off plate 11 Ribbon shield 12 Thermal printhead ...

Page 30: ...1 Memory card module slot 2 Input voltage selector Fuse holder 3 Input voltage selector cover 4 Power switch 5 Power supply connector 6 Serial interface port 7 Parallel interface port 8 Slot for fanfold paper Fig 4 h Back view Apollo 1 2 1 2 3 5 4 8 7 6 ...

Page 31: ... Memory card module slot 2 Parallel interface port 3 Serial interface port 4 Input voltage selector Fuse holder 5 Input voltage selector cover 6 Power switch 7 Power supply connector 8 Slot for fanfold paper Fig 4 i Back view of Apollo 3 1 2 3 4 5 8 6 7 ...

Page 32: ...ed operative voltage are installed You will find the necessary fuses for the other voltage in the accessories package Slide the voltage selector back into the power supply module so that the correct voltage is visible in the lid window 2 Connect the printer to a grounded outlet using the power cable supplied in the accessories package 1 Voltage selector 2 Voltage selector cover 3 Power switch 4 Po...

Page 33: ...ollo as part of a networked system In addition to the serial port the Apollo also provides a parallel Centronics interface which offers a faster transfer of data than the serial interfaces Therefore we recommend you use the parallel interface for those applications where a large number of loadable fonts or complex graphics have to be printed For the Centronics interface use the 36 pin interface co...

Page 34: ... removed from the lower pinch roller 11 and the entire area is opened for loading the media 2 Loosen the media retainer knurled screw 5 and swing the media retainer 4 upwards 3 Place the label roll 2 onto the media hub 3 The solid line represents the feed path of outside rolled labels the broken line of inside rolled labels The broken dotted line shows the media path of fanfold paper 6 For printer...

Page 35: ...igure 6 a b NOTICE It is particularly important to ensure that the media strip slides properly between the fittings of the adjustable photocell assembly 9 7 Slide the media strip right through the space between the print roller and the printhead until it comes out of the Apollo 8 Slide the media guide 8 back towards the edge of the media strip 9 Turn the lever 1 counter clockwise until it stops an...

Page 36: ...nk on the outer side 3 Rotate the knurled knob 7 clockwise to clamp the roll of transfer ribbon 5 onto the ribbon supply hub 6 4 Slide an empty cardboard core 2 onto the ribbon take up hub 3 Clamp the core by rotating the knurled knob 4 clockwise 5 Feed the transfer ribbon along the path as shown in Figure 6 c then attach it to the core 2 using adhesive tape or a label 6 Turn take up hub 3 counter...

Page 37: ...nch holes or reflective markings or deviate from the square or rectangular shape It is important to ensure that the sensor is positioned in a way that the gaps between the labels or the markings can be recognized by the photocell the position of the sensor is marked by a notch in the sensor holder If using labels with an unconventional shape i e round or curved the sensor should be positioned at t...

Page 38: ...ge density from one edge of the label to the other To correct this problem the printhead support 2 may be adjusted Adjust printhead support as follows 1 Loosen the locking screw 2 For Apollo 1 this screw is an oval headed screw whereas for Apollo 2 3 it is a knurled screw 2 Move the locking screw 2 as required within the adjustment slot 3 This will cause the cam shaped printhead support 4 to rotat...

Page 39: ...ade even from the left to the right by moving the ribbon shield 3 up or down 1 Loosen the adjustment screws 4 2 Shift the transfer ribbon shield 3 sideways into the direction of the wrinkle Moving it to the left will increase the tension on the left Use the scale 2 provided to monitor the adjustments made If the screw is in position 1 the tension is highest on the outside and if it is in position ...

Page 40: ...ly provides the operator with the actual information concerning the current printer mode and label processing The indicator LEDs support the information shown in the display by indicating which keys have to be pressed e g in the event of a fault On the following pages you will find descriptions of the system modes of the Apollo the related indications by the LCD display and the LEDs as well as a d...

Page 41: ...ceeds to the ONLINE mode or otherwise the printer switches to system mode FAULT IRRECOVERABLE Display The top line of the display shows the version of the printer for instance APOLLO 3 The bottom line of the display shows the numbers 123456 one after the other depending on the progress of the several test steps LED Display All LEDs flash up once briefly Function keys The function keys have no effe...

Page 42: ...p parameter Pause reprint is on ONL key Pressing both keys together for at least 5 seconds will switch into the SETUP mode LED ONL off CAN key System Mode ONLINE The printer is switched ON and ready to receive data Display The top line of the display shows ONLINE The bottom line of the display shows the time of day During the transfer of data a rotating pointer appears in the right hand corner of ...

Page 43: ...talled and formats are stored on it PSE key Display shows current printer mode Printer info see also Chapter 11 Table 8 b Function keys in OFFLINE mode System Mode OFFLINE The printer is not ready to print or to receive data The status of the printer may be requested Display The top line of the display shows OFFLINE By repeatedly pressing the PSE key the status of the printer will be shown see als...

Page 44: ... top line of the display shows the message Printing label The bottom line displays the current number of printed labels During the transfer of data a rotating pointer appears in the right hand corner of the lower display line LED Display LED ONL on Function Keys CAN key Cancels the current print job Switch into ONLINE mode LED ONL on PSE key Interrupts the current print job Switch into PAUSE mode ...

Page 45: ... Cancels the current print job Switch into ONLINE mode LED PSE off PSE key Continues the current print job Switch into PRINT mode LED PSE off Table 8 d Function keys in PAUSE mode System Mode PAUSE The printing process is temporarily interrupted by the operator Display The top line of the display shows PAUSE LED Display LED ONL on LED PSE on Function Keys ...

Page 46: ...h into PRINT mode LED ONL on LED CAN off LED PSE off System Mode FAULT CORRECTABLE The printer has encountered a fault during printing which is easily correctable by the operator e g Out of paper following which the printing process may be continued Display The top line of the display shows alternately the type of fault and the total of the remaining labels of the current print job LED Display LED...

Page 47: ...cancelling the current print run e g hardware fault Display The display shows the type of fault LED Display LED CAN is flashing Function Keys CAN key Cancels the current print job Switch into ONLINE mode LED ONL on LED CAN off LED PSE off If ONLINE mode cannot be entered switch printer on and off again If the fault remains contact Technical Service Table 8 f Function keys in mode FAULT IRRECOVERAB...

Page 48: ...he current print requirements for details see Chapter 9 Display Following the completion of the system test the display briefly shows SET UP followed by Land or Country Depending on the selection all of the setup parameters and their settings will be shown LED Display All LEDs off Function Keys ONL key Stores the chosen settings of the setup parameters and completes the SETUP mode i e switch into ...

Page 49: ...ed down until the system test is completed Following an internal test sample will be printed for details see Chapter 10 Then the system test will be repeated Display Following the completion of the system test the display shows Test print LED Display LED ONL on Function Keys CAN key Cancels the test print Switch into SYSTEMTEST mode Table 8 h Function keys in TEST PRINT mode ...

Page 50: ...completed In this mode the control codes received by the printer are directly printed as text corresponding to the set font rather than being interpreted as defined by the programming Display After the completion of the system test the display shows ASCII Dump Mode LED Display LED ONL on Function Keys ONL key Switch into ONLINE mode FF key Initiates a paper feed of about 8 in 21 mm Table 8 i Funct...

Page 51: ...d is installed and a label format is present in OFFLINE mode press the key to enter the LABEL FROM CARD mode In this mode the labels stored on the card can be selected to print for files with a variable number of labels the quantity of labels to be printed can be set Display The top line of the display shows Label from card The bottom line of the display shows the file name of the first label file...

Page 52: ...nts the first of the parameters to select from Depending on the selection the setup parameters and their settings will be shown The list of parameters is brought up in a row and may be run through repeatedly Each time a parameter setting has been changed there will be a request for confirmation There will not be a general request before leaving the setup mode The setup mode can be left at any poin...

Page 53: ...11 Set time 12 Character set 13 Format card 14 Copy card 15 Backfeed 16 Debug mode 17 Tear off position 18 Pause reprint 1 Country Starting Setup Overview of the Setup Parameters Fig 9 a Setup parameters Scrolling up down the parameters Definition of the list items No Para No Item number Para Name of the parameter Parameter may be altered via software Parameter is limited changeable via software ...

Page 54: ...printout can be altered via software The language that the prompts on the LCD are displayed in cannot be altered through software only with the front panel Default Setting USA Fig 9 b Set Country parameter 2 Transfer print 18 Pause reprint 1 Country Selection xxxx xxxxxxxxx Yes xxxx xxxxxxxxx No Confirmation Land Deutschland Pays France Country United Kingdom Country USA Pays Suisse Pays Belgie Ma...

Page 55: ...rance 22 01 2001 14 15 56 Country United Kingdom 22 01 2001 14 15 56 Country USA 1 22 2001 02 15 56 pm Land Schweiz 22 01 2001 14 15 56 Pays Suisse 22 01 2001 14 15 56 Pays Belgie 22 01 2001 14 15 56 Maa Suomi 22 01 2001 14 15 56 Nazione Italia 22 01 2001 14 15 56 Pais España 22 01 2001 14 15 56 Zeme Ceska republica 22 01 2001 14 15 56 Land Danmark 22 01 2001 14 15 56 Table 9 Specific format setti...

Page 56: ...t a lower heat level compared to the direct thermal printing mode On the other hand the ribbon sensor is only active in thermal transfer printing mode NOTICE This parameter can also be changed via software For different print jobs it is recommended to make all changes in the software Default Setting Transfer print ON Transfer print On Transfer print Off Transfer print xxx Yes Transfer print xxx No...

Page 57: ...abel formats page 20 All versions of the Apollo offer the see through mode and reflective mark recognition on the bottom side of the material In addition Apollo 1 and Apollo 2 are also able to recognize reflective marks on the top of the material NOTICE This parameter can also be changed via software For different print jobs it is recommended to make all changes in the software Default Setting Gap...

Page 58: ...cified Selectable Interfaces RS 232 Serial standard interface available at each computer RS 422 Serial interface for long distance transmissions special interface at the computer required RS 485 Serial interface for network solutions special interface at the computer required Centronics Parallel interface available at each computer The parameter setting cannot be changed via software Default Setti...

Page 59: ...2 Interface RS 232C Interface RS 485 Interface Centronics Type of Interface Fig 9 e Set Interface parameter 3 Label sensor 4 Interface 5 Cut Position Baud rate 1200 Baud rate 57600 Baud rate 1200 Baud rate Baud rate 57600 Baud rate 1200 Network address A Network address Z Network address Protocol Protocol RTS CTS Protocol XON XOFF Protocol Protocol Protocol XON XOFF ...

Page 60: ...istance between the cutting edge and the rear edge of the label NOTICE It is recommended that you carry out changes for single print jobs in the software e g if the cut is not wanted in the middle of the gap The software provides a second value for individual adjustments You may also change this value using the software commands Any front panel value and software command value are totaled together...

Page 61: ...leaving a smaller strip sticking on the carrier ribbon NOTICE It is recommended that you alter the parameter for single print jobs via software e g if an applicator is used and therefore the labels have to be removed completely The software provides a second value for individual adjustments You may also change this value using the software commands Any front panel value and software command value ...

Page 62: ...ence will be ignored and the actual difference will be used in place The setting of a negative X offset value shifting the print image inward is not possible Y Offset With this parameter the location of the print image can be shifted in the direction of the label path range from 39 to 39 or 9 9 mm to 9 9 mm When the offset values are positive the printing in the direction of the label path starts ...

Page 63: ...os Y 9 y mm Printhead pos Y 0 y mm Printhead pos Y y 9 mm Printhead pos Y y 0 mm Printhead pos Y y y mm Yes Printhead pos Y y y mm No Confirmation y offset Sign or y offset 1 10 mm y offset mm Fig 9 h Set Printhead Position parameter Printhead pos X 9 x mm Printhead pos X 0 x mm Printhead pos X x 9 mm Printhead pos X x 0 mm x offset 1 10 mm x offset mm ...

Page 64: ...he setting possibly has to be adjusted NOTICE To adjust the printer to current print jobs it is recommended that you alter the heat level parameter via software e g for different material and speed Any front panel value and software command value are totaled together for printing The current field to be changed is flashing in the display Fig 9 i Set Heat level parameter Heat level x Heat level x H...

Page 65: ...vides information about the firmware Furthermore information about the cumulative length of printed media as well as the number of operating hours are shown 8 Heat level 9 Printer info 10 Set date Printer info Printer info Version xxxxxxx Printer info xxxxxx m xxxx h Fig 9 k Printer info display ...

Page 66: ...December 31 2069 If an invalid date entry is made the display shows Invalid input After pressing the key the parameter may be set again Date changes in the software will only influence the date on the printout but not affect the system date as stored in the setup The current field to be changed is flashing in the display 10 Set date 11 Set time Day Month Year Confirmation Set date xx 12 xxxx Set d...

Page 67: ...ence the printout but not affect the system time of the printer The changed time will neither be shown in the display nor be stored in the printer setup The current field to be changed is flashing in the display Hour Minute Second Confirmation Set time xx 59 xx Set time xx 00 xx Set time xx xx 59 Set time xx xx 00 Set time 23 xx xx Set time 00 xx xx Set time xx xx xx Yes Set time xx xx xx No Fig 9...

Page 68: ...ected fonts the Unicode character table can be used The character set tables are included in Appendix A Default Setting Windows 1252 11 Set time Selection Character set ISO 8859 1 Character set Codepage 850 Character set Macintosh Character set ISO 8859 8 Character set Codepage 852 Character set EBCDIC Fig 9 n Set Character set parameter 12 Character set 13 Format card Character set xxxxxxx Yes Ch...

Page 69: ... Therefore this option may also be used to prepare new memory cards for operation 12 Character set 13 Format card 14 Copymemorycard Format card No Format card Yes Format card xxxx yyyy OK Fig 9 o Delete Format a memory card If the procedure has been started without having a card installed the display will show No card Pressing the key will skip to the following parameter xxxx Type of card e g sRAM...

Page 70: ...lication is carried out file by file This allows the usage of memory cards with different capacities When the duplicate card cannot store any more information the display shows Card full If data with a capacity of more than 1Megabyte has to be copied the duplication process will be divided into several cycles Alternately the printer display will ask to insert either the source card or the duplicat...

Page 71: ...d all of the data for printing the following label Otherwise the print of the second label will be started but only completed after the first one has been picked up Smart backfeed can cause flaws in the printed image Besides Apollo 1 offers to select from two backfeed modes either head lift off or head down By selecting Head lift off the printhead is raised with each backfeed of material This prev...

Page 72: ... recognize faults and their possible sources beyond standard error messages For standard use of the printer the parameter should always be switched OFF Default Setting Debug mode OFF Debug mode Off Debug mode On Debug mode xxx Yes Debug mode xxx No Selection Confirmation Fig 9 r Set Debug mode 15 Backfeed 16 Debug mode 17 Tear off positio ...

Page 73: ...nt job first the label material will be fed back until the front edge of the first label is located at the print line If the parameter is OFF the label dispense stops immediately after the last label has completely passed the print line Default Setting Tear off position OFF Tear off positio On Tear off positio xxx Yes Tear off positio xxx No Selection Confirmation Fig 9 s Set Tear off position par...

Page 74: ...repeated by pressing the key This function may be switched ON or OFF in the Pause reprint parameter of the setup mode Default Setting Pause Reprint ON Pause Reprint Off Pause Reprint xxx Yes Pause Reprint xxx No Selection Confirmation Fig 9 t Set Pause Reprint parameter 17 Tear off positio 18 Pause reprint 1 Country Pause Reprint On ...

Page 75: ...ted The display shows Test print and the Apollo will print an internal test sample which contains a variety of information about the configuration of the printer as well as the results of the internal test The test printout can also include a range of hardware errors which have occurred previously even if they have disappeared again This information is important for service purposes and can only b...

Page 76: ...f the Self Test Printout Fig 10 Self test printout On the following pages you will find detailed information about the contents of the test printout 1 2 4 5 3 Firmware version Setup and status informationen Available fonts Test pattern Bar code with test information ...

Page 77: ...ault correction see Appendix C C shows when the setup has been altered from the defaults Apollo 1 and Apollo 2 only For Apollo 3 the letter behind the sign indicates the state of modification of the hardware board Operative time Cumulative operating time of the printer Number of labels Cumulative amount of printed labels Thermal transfer Cumulative length of printed material in thermal transfer mo...

Page 78: ... 4096 2000 8192 4000 16384 Wrong board revision Apollo 3 8000 32768 Setup invalid For the test result the codes of occurred errors are added up to a four digit hexadecimal number to determine the final test result For example Ribbon saver fault LCD damaged Test result 0028 Table 10 Self test Test result error codes 3 Bar Code with Test Information This special bar code is designed for use by Techn...

Page 79: ...shows errors such as varying print intensity which indicates the printhead being misadjusted or dirty or missing ink dots causing vertical white lines 4 Available Fonts No Identification No of the font for programming command T Name Name of font used for internal storing Name of command query sequence q CR Type Method of generating the characters see programming of command T Description Font descr...

Page 80: ...pressing the key back into ONLINE mode Definition of the Printer Info Display Printer info 1 RS 232 RTS CTS Fig 11 a Printer info display 1 On the first page the selected interface RS 232 RS 422 RS 485 Centronics and in case of a serial interface the handshake or protocol RTS CTS or will be shown Printer info 2 9 600 Fig 11 b Printer info display 2 The second page contains information about the fi...

Page 81: ... y Type of peripheral device 0 Cutter 2 Applicator 3 None fitted 4 External print start For example Figure 11 d 3 No peripheral device connected z Configuration setting Transfer print Label sensor The value of z results from adding the code numbers for selected settings Transfer print 1 ON 0 OFF Label sensor 8 Bottom Reflect 4 Gap sensor 0 Top Reflect For example Figure 11d 5 Transfer print ON 1 G...

Page 82: ...ehind the fault e g for unknown commands In monitor mode the Apollo will not recognize gaps between labels nor control the ribbon feed NOTICE The font used for printouts in monitor mode is suitable to send by facsimile For questions or future reference print and retain one copy of the label format for each label printed Start of Monitor Mode ASCII Dump Mode To start the monitor mode press the key ...

Page 83: ...le of ASCII Dump Mode The following figures show the normal appearance of a printed label and the appearance of the same label when its commands are printed in ASCII Dump mode Fig 12 a Normal label Fig 12 b The same label as above printed in ASCII Dump mode ...

Page 84: ...84 cab Produkttechnik GmbH Co KG Tharo Systems Inc This page is intentionally left blank ...

Page 85: ...00 mm with a core diameter of 3 in 75 mm or a roll of 7 5 in 190 mm with a core of 1 5 in 40 mm The rewinder requires a separate power outlet for its operation Delivery Contents The rewinder is packed separately from the printer NOTICE Please keep the original packaging in case the rewinder must be returned The following components are included in the package 1 Rewinder 2 2 Rewind axle adapters wi...

Page 86: ... Before connecting the rewinder to the power supply make sure the voltage selected on the power module corresponds with the supply voltage Set the switch 1 to the required method of rewinding Rewind with labels on the inner side of the silicon liner Rewind with labels on the outer side of the silicon liner Selecting the Method of Rewinding The external rewinder allows rewinding of labels in both w...

Page 87: ... Slide the voltage selector back into the power supply module so that the correct voltage is visible in the lid window Connect the rewinder to a grounded outlet using the power cable supplied in the accessories package Connecting the Rewinder to the Power Supply The rewinder operates with a supply voltage of 230V 50Hz or 115V 60Hz CAUTION Before connecting the rewinder to the power supply make sur...

Page 88: ...thod of rewinding attach the label strip appro priately to the rewinder axle 4 by sliding the clamp 5 over the label strip with the clamp set in the groove the broken line shows the path of inside rolled labels Ensure that the label strip is even with the disc 1 4 Slide the clamp 5 as far as possible towards the disc 1 5 Slide the flange 3 onto the rewind axle 4 so that it slightly touches the lab...

Page 89: ...isc 1 is a little less than the width of the cardboard roll 3 Tighten knurled screw 5 5 Slide the cardboard roll 3 over the two adapters 4 until it is touching the disc 1 6 Feed the label strip over the guide bar and under the roller as shown in Figure 13 e up to the cardboard roll 3 7 Using adhesive tape or a label affix the end of the label strip to the cardboard roll 3 the broken line shows the...

Page 90: ... the printer allows a backfeed of the label stock so that it is always possible to print the last label in its entirety before it is cut off The cutter assembly is delivered in a separate package NOTICE Please keep the original packaging in case the cutter must be returned Fig 13 f Mechanical mounting of the cutter CAUTION The printer must be switched OFF before mounting the cutter The cutter may ...

Page 91: ...r 2 counter clockwise until it stops 4 Remove the tear off plate 5 from the guide holes 3 5 Slide the cutter 4 into the guide holes 3 6 Turn the lever 2 clockwise until it stops 7 Connect the cutter cable 6 to the 15 pin peripheral port on the front of the Apollo 8 Switch the printer ON The cutter will perform a synchronized cutting cycle 9 Press the key The printer will feed one blank label forwa...

Page 92: ...ing the internal rewinder Preparing the printer Loosen the screws 2 and remove the lid 1 1 2 Fig 13 h Dismounting the lid Mounting the internal rewinder The internal rewinder will be fixed at the mounting plate of the printer with three screws 1 Rotate the rewind hub 9 and the rewind plate 8 in relation to the flange 7 so that one of the holes in the flange is accessible 2 Push the rewinder assemb...

Page 93: ...readed hole 3 on the mounting plate 4 Fix the rewinder at this point with on screw 2 5 Turn the rewind plate 8 so that the two other holes 11 12 become accessible one after the other and insert screws at this two positions too 6 Tighten all screws 10 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Fig 13 i Mounting the internal rewinder 1 10 8 11 12 Fig 13 k Mounting the internal rewinder 2 ...

Page 94: ...f the media supply roll It is limited by the possible contact of both the rewind roll and supply roll Fig 13 l Mounting the rewind guide plate The Apollo is delivered with a mounted tear off plate 4 For internal rewinding the tear off plate has to be replaced with the rewind guide plate 3 1 Turn the lever 1 counter clockwise until it stops 2 Remove the tear off plate 4 from the mounting holes 2 3 ...

Page 95: ...fittings of the adjustable photocell assembly 15 6 Feed the media strip between the print roller and the thermal printhead and then over the rewind guide plate 3 to the internal rewinder 12 7 The internal media rewind hub 12 is fitted with an expanding axle that contains clamps 10 for securing the media Slide the media strip from underneath the rewinder clamps 10 to the disc Fasten the media strip...

Page 96: ...til the label in the dispense position is removed NOTICE When editing or creating labels in demand mode make sure that the part of the label which lies directly underneath the photocell is only colored black to a maximum of 50 Higher blackening density print may cause malfunctions of the sensor Fig 13 n Mounting of the present sensor The Apollo is generally shipped with the tear off plate 1 mounte...

Page 97: ...n the print roller and the thermal printhead and then over the dispense edge 19 up to the internal rewinder 14 7 Slide the media strip from underneath the rewinder clamps 12 to the disc Fasten the media strip to the axle by holding the rewinder 14 and rotating the knurled knob 13 clockwise until it stops To tighten the media rotate rewinder counter clockwise 8 Slide the two media guides 15 16 agai...

Page 98: ...resent sensor 2 9 pin SUB D connector for an external release switch 3 15 pin SUB D plug to connect the adapter to the peripheral port of the Apollo Pin Assignment of the 9 pin SUB D Connector Pin 1 2 Optocoupler inputs A short impuls of 24V at the pins at Pin1 at Pin2 releases the print of one label external start signal The start impuls has to be shorter than the print time of the label The curr...

Page 99: ...g the external switch Installation of the Cut Peel off Adapter Pin 3 4 Transistor outputs of an optocoupler Pin3 collector Pin4 emitter If the adapter is used with the present sensor the state of the transistor shows the presence of a label in the peel off position If there is a label the transistor is blocked so that no current can flow between the pins CAUTION The current at the pins 3 and 4 has...

Page 100: ...acity for Apollo 1 2 is 4 MegaByte and for Apollo 3 16 MegaByte It is recommended that you make backup copies in case of malfunction of the original cards Preparing the Memory Card Fig 13 s Write protection Inserting the battery The write protection of the card may be activated or deactivated by shifting the switch 1 located at the front side of the card The interpretation of the setting may be re...

Page 101: ... card Fig 13 u Connecting side NOTICE At the connecting side of the card there are different guides on the top and the bottom which make it impossible to insert the card incorrectly Insert the card 1 that way into the slot 2 that the one rail guide is at the upper and the two rail guide at the lower side of the card 1 2 ...

Page 102: ...aphics or font files directly onto the card using a PC card drive of a lap top or another computer and the DOS command COPY Another way is to write on the card using the card drive of the Apollo and transfer the data via interface For saving a label you need to put the label design commands into brackets consisting of Ms commands Ms LBL ABC Command to save a file called ABC J H 100 0 T S l1 0 0 68...

Page 103: ...s of the card Confirm the selection by pressing the key 4 If you have chosen a label with a set number of labels to print the Apollo will instantly start printing 5 For labels with a variable number of labels the top line of the display shows Number of labels the bottom line shows 00001 with the first figure flashing cursor Using the key and the key the figure at the position of the cursor may be ...

Page 104: ...for use with all keyboards which fulfill the following requirements MF 2 compatible having a 5pin DIN plug supporting code set 3 and also operating with a maximum of 15 kBaud CAUTION The current consumption of the connected keyboard or scanner must not exceed 100 mA Installation of the Keyboard Adapter Fig 13 v Keyboard adapter 1 25 pin SUB D plug 2 5 pin DIN connector 1 Change the interface setti...

Page 105: ...ee Appendix A Table A 3b Some of the special characters cannot be shown in the display of the printer In that case the Apollo will use a character which looks similar to the required character NOTICE When using a scanner the character set of the scanner has to be the same as used by the Apollo Special Key Functions F1 To enter the list of labels stored on the memory card F2 To repeat the print of ...

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Page 107: ...A 1 cab Produkttechnik GmbH Co KG Tharo Systems Inc Appendix A Character Tables Setup Selectable Character Tables Table A 1 a Character set Windows 1252 Table A 1 b Character set Windows 1250 ...

Page 108: ...A 2 cab Produkttechnik GmbH Co KG Tharo Systems Inc Table A 1 d Character set Codepage 850 Table A 1 c Character set ISO 8859 1 ...

Page 109: ...A 3 cab Produkttechnik GmbH Co KG Tharo Systems Inc Table A 1 f Character set Macintosh Table A 1 e Character set EBCDIC ...

Page 110: ...A 4 cab Produkttechnik GmbH Co KG Tharo Systems Inc Table A 1 h Character set ISO 8859 8 Table A 1 g Character set Codepage 852 ...

Page 111: ...A 5 cab Produkttechnik GmbH Co KG Tharo Systems Inc Unicode Tables Table A 2 a Unicode 0000 00FF ...

Page 112: ...A 6 cab Produkttechnik GmbH Co KG Tharo Systems Inc Table A 2 b Unicode 0100 01FF ...

Page 113: ...A 7 cab Produkttechnik GmbH Co KG Tharo Systems Inc Table A 2 c Unicode 2000 20FF ...

Page 114: ...A 8 cab Produkttechnik GmbH Co KG Tharo Systems Inc Table A 2 d Unicode 2100 21FF ...

Page 115: ...aracters as used by the keyboard adapter with reference to different country settings Use with the ALT key ALT key Character Character ALT key Keys of the numeric keyboard GR Deutschland BE Belgie FR France SU Suomi UK United Kingdom IT Italia US USA SP España SG Schweiz DK Danmark SF Suisse CZ Ceska republika ...

Page 116: ...r ALT Z2 For example For ñ 1st character 2nd character ALT n NOTICE For inserting the Z1 character you may use the information as in Table A 3a Table A 3b Special characters as used by the keyboard adapter which may be generated by inserting two characters one after the other ZZ Z1 Z2 ZZ Z1 Z2 ZZ Z1 Z2 ZZ Z1 Z2 ...

Page 117: ...RS 485 Pin 1 Pin 13 Pin 14 Pin 25 Fig B 1 Connector of the serial interface rear of the printer Table B 1 Signals of the serial interface connector Pin Signal Function 1 CG Protective grounding 2 TxD Transmit data RS 232 3 RxD Receive data RS 232 4 RTS Request to send 5 CTS Clear to send 7 GND Logic grounding 9 TDATA Transmit data RS 422 RS 485 10 TDATA Transmit data RS 422 RS 485 18 RDATA Receive...

Page 118: ...ers If you have any problems with the connections contact the manufacturer of your computer on the pin assignment of the interface Use the pin assignment of the printer as shown in Table B 1 to obtain a suitable cable PC Apollo 25 pin connector 25 pin plug PC Apollo 9 pin connector 25 pin plug Fig B 3 Interface cable with 9 pin computer connector for RS 232 with protocol or XON XOFF Fig B 2 Interf...

Page 119: ...ain a suitable cable The pins of TDATA and RDATA and the pins of TDATA und RDATA have to be connected with ea ch other For long transmission distances it is recommanded to terminate the lines 9 pin connector 25 pin plug Fig B 5 Interface cable with 9 pin computer connector for RS 232 with protocol RTS CTS or XON XOFF 25 pin connector 25 pin plug Fig B 4 Interface cable with 25 pin computer connect...

Page 120: ...of the Centronics interface Fig B 6 Centronics interface connector rear of the printer Pin Signal Pin Signal 1 STROBE 19 GND 2 DATA 1 20 GND 3 DATA 2 21 GND 4 DATA 3 22 GND 5 DATA 4 23 GND 6 DATA 5 24 GND 7 DATA 6 25 GND 8 DATA 7 26 GND 9 DATA 8 27 GND 10 ACKNLG 28 GND 11 BUSY 29 GND 12 PE 30 GND 13 SLCT 31 nc 14 nc 32 nc 15 nc 33 nc 16 GND 34 nc 17 nc 35 nc 18 nc 36 nc Pin 18 Pin 1 Pin 19 Pin 36 ...

Page 121: ...connectors are standard cables so that normally there are no problems with the external control of the Apollo In the event of any difficulties consult the manufacturer of your computer on the pin assignment of the computer s interface Use the pin assignment of the printer as shown in Table B 1 to obtain a suitable cable ...

Page 122: ...nment of the peripheral port Pin 8 Pin 1 Pin 9 Pin 15 Pin Signal Function 1 COD0 Code bit 0 2 PAI0 Sensor bit 0 3 PAO0 Control bit 0 4 PAO2 Control bit 2 5 GND Logic grounding 6 5V Logic voltage Imax 500 mA 7 PGND Power grounding 8 24V Voltage for power level Imax 1 2 A 9 COD1 Code bit 1 10 PAI1 Sensor bit 1 11 PAO1 Control bit 1 12 PAO3 Control bit 3 13 GND Logic grounding 14 PGND Power grounding...

Page 123: ... print job an error has occured which may be corrected by the operator and also allows you to continue the print job after fault correction Display The top line of the display shows alternately the type of fault and the total of the remaining labels of the current print job LED Display LED CAN on LED PSE is flashing If an applicator is connected LED FF is flashing Function Keys Table C 1 Function ...

Page 124: ...ode LED ONL on LED CAN off LED PSE off If ONLINE mode cannot be entered switch printer on and off again If the fault remains again contact Technical Service Table C 2 Function keys in mode FAULT IRRECOVERABLE Error Messages The following table contains an overview of possible error messages their possible causes as well as solutions to the problems Correctable faults as defined above are marked wi...

Page 125: ... device Solution Switch printer off and then on If error recurs contact Service Replace battery inside the PC card Use the protocol preferably RTS CTS for data transmission Replace card Switch printer off remove material from the cutter switch printer on If then the error message Cutter stuck appears contact Service Otherwise check the thickness of the label material and replace if necessary Switc...

Page 126: ...re Cancel current print job Check data Cancel current print job Change font Use RESTORE function to reset all settings back to factory settings Configure setup see Chapter 9 If error recurs contact Service Switch printer off and then on If error recurs contact Service Cancel current print job Reduce amount of information Possible cause Requested file is not on the card Hardware error Hardware erro...

Page 127: ...rmal mode without transfer ribbon but the software is set for transfer printing Solution Press key repeatedly until printer recognizes the next label on the material Cancel current print job Change the label format set in the software Restart print job Cancel current print job Change either software setting or print media Restart print job Insert new supply roll Check paper feed Adjust the label e...

Page 128: ...rinter Hardware error Refers to the optional memory card Hardware error Refers to the optional memory card Write protection is activated Solution Depending on the type of fault the command can be skipped by pressing the key or the print job has to be cancelled by pressing the key Switch printer off Correct the interface setting in the printer setup see Chapter 9 There is no solution Check the batt...

Page 129: ... any maintenance switch the printer OFF and disconnect it from the power supply General Cleaning While operating dust accumulates especially within the printer mechanism Remove dirt and dust regularly using a soft brush or a vacuum The cover of the Apollo may be cleaned using standard cleanser CAUTION Do not use abrasive cleaning powders or solvents Cleaning the Media Feed Rollers Accumulations of...

Page 130: ...leaning Recommended cleaning intervalls Direct Thermal Printing each time you change the label roll Thermal Transfer Printing each time you change the ribbon CAUTION Do not use any sharp objects for cleaning the printhead Do not touch the protective glass layer of the printhead Clean the printhead as follows 1 Lift the printhead 2 Remove label material and transfer ribbon from the printer 3 Clean ...

Page 131: ...ollows 1 You may leave the transfer ribbon 1 inside the printer and simply poke through it with your hex wrench 2 Loosen the locking screw 2 on the printhead by half a turn This will allow for the required horizontal adjustment of the printhead 3 By turning the two screws underneath 3 you may shift the printhead as follows The overall distance for adjusting is 1 in or 2 5 mm By turning the screws ...

Page 132: ...ust be closed after every single adjustment step to make the change effective 5 Tighten the locking screw 2 6 Perform a test print for instance a wide black line over the whole width of the label and review the results 7 Repeat steps 2 to 6 as necessary to complete the adjustment ...

Page 133: ...ce of the Apollo 3 on the highest possible speed that is supported by your computer or else use the Centronics interface 2 When switching the Apollo 3 ON press all of the four function keys at once The display will show SYSTEM UPDATE 3 Transmit the data to the printer Under DOS use the following copy command COPY AP3_XXX FMW COM2 b 4 During processing the printer display indicates the progress wit...

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Page 135: ...32 Connection to power supply External rewinder 87 Control panel 15 40ff Copy memory card 70 Correctable errors C 1 Country 54f Cover 23 Cut peel off adapter 98f Cut position 60 Cutter 16 90f Cutter blocked C 3 Cutter jammed C 3 Cutter stuck C 3 D Date 55 66 Delivery contents 22 Delivery Contents External Rewinder 85 Dimensions 15 Direct thermal printing 19 Display 23 40ff Documentation 8 dRAM mal...

Page 136: ...Memory card 17 51 69f 100ff Memory card formatting 102 Memory card installing 101 Memory card printing from 103 Memory card slot module 30f 101 Memory card writing on 102 Memory overflow C 4 MONITOR MODE system mode 50 Monitor mode 82f N No label found C 5 O OFFLINE System mode 43 ONL key 40ff ONLINE System mode 42 Operator s manual 8 Options 16f 85ff Out of paper C 5 Out of ribbon C 5 P Parallel ...

Page 137: ...winder 88 Rewinding onto cardboard roll External Rewinder 89 Ribbon saver 14 Ribbon shield 23 25 27 29 Ribbon supply hub 24 26 28 Ribbon take up hub 24 26 28 RS 232 33 58f RS 422 33 58f RS 485 33 58f S Safety instructions 22 Self test 75ff Self test printout 75ff Serial interface port 30f 33 Service manual 8 SETUP System mode 48 Setup 52ff Setup parameters overview 53 Slot for fanfold paper 30f sR...

Page 138: ...Machinery Regulations 89 392 EEC Appendix IIA Machine Safety EN 292 T1 T2 1991 11 EC Low Voltage Regulations 73 23 EEC Data and Office Machine Safety EN60950 1992 A1 1993 EN 60950 A2 1993 EC Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 89 336 EEC Threshold values for the Interference EN 55022 1998 of Data Machines Limits for harmonic current emission EN 61000 3 2 1995 A1 1998 A2 1998 A14 1999 2000 Li...

Page 139: ...________________ Phone ______________________ Fax ______________________ Printer Model __________________ Serial Number _______________ To request a copy of the Apollo Programmer s Manual complete this form in full and mail or fax to 1 If your company is in Europe Africa or the Middle East your manual supplier is cab Produkttechnik Wilhelm Schickard Straße 14 D 76131 Karlsruhe TEL 49 721 6626 00 F...